Hey, remember when Clubhouse was the trending app of the moment, so much so that Clubhouse invites were being sold for hundreds of dollars each on eBay?
WhatsApp remembers, which is why today, it’s announced an expansion of voice chat to all groups, so you can activate a live audio call within your DM communities.
Which is not entirely new, as WhatsApp has allowed voice chats in large groups (33 to 256 people) for some time.
But now, all groups can switch to audio mode, if they choose.
As explained by WhatsApp:
“Whether it’s a nail-biting football game, a dramatic season finale or sharing some big news, sometimes you need to talk it out with those available at that moment. That’s why we’re bringing voice chat to groups of all sizes so you can connect live over audio whenever, without having to leave your group chat or switch to a call, that people in your group can hop into whenever they want.”
So it’s Clubhouse, but in WhatsApp.
As noted, audio social had a moment in 2021, with the pandemic restrictions leading to a new demand for more immediate, direct connection within social apps. Audio filled that need for some, though since that initial boom, audio social options have fallen away, and become an afterthought for most users.
But audio chats within smaller WhatsApp groups could offer a new value, with more intimate chats among people you know, providing immediate engagement options around live events, family meet-ups, etc.
“Now, anyone in your group can start a voice chat by going to the bottom of your chat, swiping up and holding for a few seconds. Starting a voice chat doesn’t notify or ring anyone, so that people can join and leave the hangout whenever. The voice chat stays pinned to the bottom of your chat so you can easily access call controls, while new members can join when they want and see who else has already.”
Yeah, it feels a little like a throwback, but it may also find a place within the WhatsApp ecosystem, which helps to facilitate more engagement.
WhatsApp audio chats are rolling out to all groups from this week.
